Cerro Gorra Blanca Ascent

Introduction

The objective of this trip is climb the “Gorra Blanca” (2900m/a/s/l), which is located near “Marconi Pass”, at the entrance of the Patagonian Ice Cap. There is a Chilean refuge at the base, which facilitate the logistic.

Weather: Success will always depend, in great measure, on the climatic factors and the conditions of the terrain. The weather in this area is very unstable and unpredictable, you must be prepared for “wild” weather conditions and accept that we´ll do our best to achieve our goals.
In this program, we take one extra day to improve the chances of a successful trip.
Our Mountain Guides will have the last decision in order to modify partially or totally the programs.

DATA SHEET

5 days expedition

Very difficult: Physically very demanding. Training required

30-40% slope gradient

Elevation gain: 2400 meters

Glacier experience required

September to March

1-2 people per guide

Itinerary

Day 1

Morning meeting with the Guide, check of the gear and details of the trip. Transfer to Río Eléctrico and start the trekking; It´ll take 2 hs to get to “Piedra del Fraile” Campsite or 5 hs to “La Playita” Camp, at the foot of Marconi Glacier.“Piedra del Fraile” is a private campsite with services, at the edge of the forest. After there the terrain is open and rockery until the next camp.

Day 2

Trek to “Paso Marconi” (1550m/a/s/l); 6 to 10hs. This is the crux of the trip; it’s needed a reasonable good day to reach the pass. Weather allowing, there are excellent views of Fitz Roy, Piergiorgio and Gorra Blanca, among others. Camp at Gorra Blanca refuge (1600m/s/n/m), with astonishing views at sunset.

Day 3

Gorra Blanca summit attempt (2900m/a/s/l) by the normal route (NW ridge), with average ice slopes from 30 to 40 degrees. There may be a short steeper section to climb the final summit mushroom. If the weather is favorable, we´ll be able to contemplate part of the Ice Field, the Cordon Gaea, Volcano Lautaro, Mount´s Fitz Roy and Torre among others. We´ll head back to the refuge in the afternoon. This is about a 10 hour day with a gain of 1300 meters. (4000 feet).